Proactiv® Blackhead Dissolving Gel Reviews

Proactiv® Blackhead Dissolving Gel is a purifying gel gently formulated with salicylic and lactic acids to help dissolve blackheads, unclog pores, absorb excess oil and remove blemish-causing impurities. It helps to soothe skin and shrink the appearance of pores for a more radiant, glowing looking complexion. Available exclusively online.

Reviews reflect the honest opinions of beautyheaven members. As part of the beautyheaven rewards program, all members receive 5 points for each review they submit.

Sort by

Member since 25/02/2017

149
Reviews

Fefe

8 Aug 2018 7:03 PM

Star Rating:

3

Smoother and brighter gel

I received the Proactiv Blackhead Dissolving Gel to sample from the recent Beautorium. I have never tried any proactive products before as I don't suffer from acne but I do have a few blackheads around my nose so I was excited to try it out.
I've used it twice now around my T-zone and have seen no difference in my pores shrinking yet but my T-zone does feel smoother and brighter once I've washed the mask off. The good thing is that I've had no side effects or reactions to the gel, it actually feels quite mild on my skin which I didn't except.

Any Tips?:

Put a little on at a time and smooth it on in a circular motion

Member since 13/09/2017

16
Reviews

zanox

8 Aug 2018 4:32 PM

Star Rating:

2

Maybe not

I've got this as a free sample together with my bh rewards haul. I've used this 3 times since. All I can say is that I can't see any difference. I was hoping to see reduced amount of blackheads, but I can't see it..yet. Maybe I need more application.

The plus point is it does not smell 'chemical-y'..so, it's a pleasant to be used around nose area. The gel also does not sting, so, my skin does not have any reaction to it, which is also a plus point. Otherwise, I just could not see clear effect. Maybe not for me.

Member since 28/09/2017

9
Reviews

Tylalala

25 Jun 2018 8:12 PM

Star Rating:

2

Proactive Blackhead Dissolving Gel

I used this Proactive Blackhead Dissolving Gel for about one week or so.

I noticed right away that it was quite harsh, however it did make my skin feel smoother and more delicate after moisturising

Suggested use is 1-2 times per week, I generally follow daily rituals as they are easier to remember so I eventually forgot about this as it didn't seem to reduce my blackheads or make much of a difference in the week that I used it

Member since 13/04/2016

115
Reviews

Sarah-may

19 May 2018 10:52 AM

Star Rating:

3

Results don't last

So this product I've used about five times. I've used it both all over the face and just on targeted areas. I found that it does work like straight after you use it the amount of blackheads are significantly reduced. The next day it looks pretty good too. After that though your skin goes back to how it was before you used it. Some good things about it though are that it doesn't sting and doesn't smell bad.

Member since 13/04/2016

16
Reviews

chloe_mitch

15 Apr 2018 8:46 PM

Star Rating:

3

Great Smell but minimal results

As of late my face seems to be the breeding ground for a number of black heads.... horribleeee!!! I seem to be trying anything and EVERYTHING to try and get rid of these pesky unwanted friends. So one could say pressure was on for this product to work. I had herd great feedback about Proactive so thought this product would be promising.

Package seemed nice and while the bottle is only small you do only need a small amount of product so the bottle should last a few months. I was expecting a very chemical like smell so I was pleasently surprised at how good the product smelt. The constancy and feel of the product was also really beautiful and simply glided onto my skin. So far so good.. right! I left the product on my skin for 5 minutes and then washed it off my skin, my skin immediately felt nice. After a few days I did however notice no change with my pesky Black heads. They hadn't reduced nor dried out since using the product. I have since used the product another two more times to see if I keep using it would I notice a difference in my skin... sad to say no change in my Black heads. Fingers crossed that these Black Heads simply get sick of my skin and pack their bags and leave as I don't believe this product will be able to get them to go on their way.

skincare junkie

Thank you Proactiv and Beautyheaven for the opportunity to try this product at the Glosscar Marketplace 2018.

I was excited to try this product. I have been using pore strips since teenage years. They work really well on me. I use them every fortnight or so, and each time I can see the impurities pulled out which is very satisfying.

Although I am grateful for the opportunity to try this product, I'll have to be honest in my review and, it simply just doesn't do anything.

I used this product as directed: 1-2 times a week. So far I have used it 5 times over the last 2.5 weeks and I even use it after physical exfoliation every single time.

The product is a white gel which, when warmed up to skin temperature, becomes more transparent. Each time after massaging onto skin I left it on for at least 5 minutes then rinse. I use it only on my nose area as that is the only area I have blackheads and/or whiteheads.

I did not notice any difference in pore size but I kept using it until the Marketplace review deadline (today).

In order to assess how effective it is, I used a pore strip to pull out anything that has not been "dissolved" by this gel in the past 2.5 weeks. When I peeled off the pore strips, I could see a lot of impurities - perhaps more than what I would normally see. Which leads me to the only possible conclusion - the Blackhead Dissolving Gel was useless.

On the flip side, it does not irritate me, and my skin does not feel tight or tingling or sensitive. It simply doesn't have any impact on my skin.

It doesn't do any harm but it's just a waste of time to use it.

Member since 13/05/2015

163
Reviews

Margaret 322

14 Apr 2018 9:12 AM

Star Rating:

4

Proactive Mask

I was happy to receive this Proactive Blackhead Dissolving Gel at the recent Beautyheaven Glosscars event.
This is a brand I previously wouldn’t have considered trying, as i don’t suffer from acne or skin related problems.
I used this as a mask, warming the gel between my fingers, before applying, only using a minimal amount. It spreads easily. I waited 5 minutes and rinsed it off with warm water.
My skin felt brighter, but, I haven’t noticed any difference in the size of my pores. I’ve tried this a few times and hope that with continued use it will shrink the pores either side of my nose. I’ve never had a problem with blackheads so can’t say if it is effective in removing them or not.
Saying that, it is a nice preventative style mask.
The next time I have a blemish I will definitely reach for this. In the meantime, I will continue to use it once a week, to see if it does indeed reduce pores.
Thank you again Beautyheaven and Proactive.

Member since 14/03/2009

294
Reviews

ThisIsMe

13 Apr 2018 2:13 PM

Star Rating:

5

Great blackhead clearer

Another item I was lucky enough to get from BH glosscars.

I had no idea a product like this even existed, but was glad to be able to try it. The tube is very small, I would have expected something larger considering the brand but you don't need much product as it spreads pretty well.

It has a nice scent and feels nice on your skin. I have noticed a big decrease in the look of my pores and they are much cleaner so I was very surprised as I did not expect it to work at all to be honest! I've tried a few things that claim to clear black heads and this has been one of the few that actually does :)

Member since 25/09/2016

250
Reviews

Nicoler112

13 Apr 2018 12:46 PM

Star Rating:

2

Not really an improvement

I received this as one of the many goodies we generously received at the glosscars marketplace.

I don't really have any issues with large pores or blackheads, but my partner does so I gave it to him to use. He used it both ways, as a mask and as a cleanser. Both ways made little difference, maybe calmed down the excess oil but no changes to blackheads or large pores. Given this is what this product claims to do, I don't think it lives up to the claims. But does control oily skin

Member since 21/09/2017

37
Reviews

Marclaire

13 Apr 2018 9:35 AM

Star Rating:

3

Blackhead Dissolving Gel

I received the Proactiv Blackhead Dissolving Gel from the recent Glosscar Awards Event.

The product is packaged in a light blue and white box, which is apparently an updated design. The Blackhead Dissolving Gel comes in a white 30ml upside down tube with two light blue stripes.

Proactiv is a brand that I wouldn't necessarily buy as I have never had an acne problem, or a problem with excess oil. I do have a few blackheads around my nose, which I would be very happy to be rid of.

I have tried the gel several times and I do think that it is helping to reduce the size of pores around my nose. As for the blackheads, I think that over time they may improve.

The product can be used as a mask or just on the areas where you are having a problem. I have used it both ways. The directions say to massage in with circular movements until the gel liquefies on contact with the skin, which it does. I left the product on for 5 minutes and then rinsed it off with warm water. Be sure to rinse it off thoroughly. I found it easier to use a face cloth.

The result is less noticeable pores, and a brighter complexion.

Any Tips?:

Rinse off thoroughly.

Ideal For...:

Problem skin.

Member since 19/01/2015

120
Reviews

BlueBite

12 Apr 2018 3:09 PM

Star Rating:

3

Okay product

Another gift from 2018 Glosscars! I don't really suffer from blackheads that much so I decided to give this to my brother as he has stubborn blackheads on his nose and around.

This gel heats up as you rub it on your skin. It spreads easily as well. My brother leaves it on for a few minutes to "pull the crap out" and then he massages again before washing the gel with warm water. He's been using this product for a few days but honestly I haven't noticed a difference. If anything, I think his skin got a little brighter.

I think this product is good for keeping skin clean and bright but don't expect much for removing blackheads.

Member since 02/12/2007

25
Reviews

ubd2u

9 Apr 2018 9:20 PM

Star Rating:

4

smooth, smells fantastic

I like the container, it just squeezes out, smells fantastic, real easy to apply you only need a bit, and it spreads very well. It did not sting, seems very gentle did not make my face go red. It is a bit hard to take off and I used a toner afterwards to get it all off. I suffer more from white heads than black heads, but I do have large pores, so I am hoping to see a difference. I did not feel like I needed to use a moisturiser the evenings that I used this product.

Any Tips?:

Wash off with a warm face washer

Ideal For...:

sensitive skin

Member since 20/05/2008

373
Reviews

IndieAna

8 Apr 2018 4:34 PM

Star Rating:

4

Proactiv Blackhead Dissolving Gel

I received the Proactiv Blackhead Dissolving Gel as a generous freebie in a past Beautorium order. Being from a brand that is known for their products that help with acne issues, it's not a product that I would have bought for myself and I actually put off using it for some time because I didn't think it would be a product for me.

After going through my skincare stash, I decided that it was about time to at least give this product a try. I might not get a lot of break-outs, but I do get congestion in the centre of my t-zone, especially my nose.

I got a travel size, which is packaged in a squeeze tube with screw-top lid. The consistency is that of a typical gel product. I found that it has a pretty heavy floral fragrance. I'm not a fan, but it doesn't stick around too long.

I just use the gel in the congested areas, massaging in first as instructed. I leave it on for the recommended 5 minutes. During this time it doesn't set, but does become less gel and more of a tacky finish. The gel is not uncomfortable at all and I have not experienced any adverse reactions.

Once I remove the gel, I notice that my pores are cleaner and appear smaller. I still have some blackheads remain in my nose area, but not as much.

Proactiv Blackhead Dissolving Gel is a product that I am happy to incorporate into my skincare routine, using it weekly to keep those pesky blackheads at bay. Even the travel size tube has a lot of uses as a little goes a long way, especially with me not having to use over my entire face.

Member since 19/02/2015

481
Reviews

Yohanna

6 Apr 2018 7:18 PM

Star Rating:

4

preventor rather than remover

I have used this for a few times already. The gel is clear and easy to spread. I use the formula as a mask. It had lactic acid, and my skin loves this one more than other equivalents. As it leaves skin not irritated.

I have combo skin and very big pores. Prone to get whiteheads and blackheads when using rich skincare moisturizers and oils. Which I do tend to do (thinking in 40s I need richer stuff....er, perhaps not)

When using the gel I have noticed that I do not need to extract any odd blackheads forming. Or not getting any new whiteheads. Happy how my pores look clean and not getting clogged without using my usual mad exfoliating routines and even extraction here and there.,

It was not drying surprisingly! Even though it has salicylic acid that in past long term use was drying out my skin. Will continue with use

Member since 30/03/2009

49
Reviews

Belindarella

3 Apr 2018 2:07 PM

Star Rating:

2

Jury still out..

I received this product at the Glosscars. I've never used a proactiv product before. I have a few blackheads & open pores around my nose & on my chin so I thought I would give it a try as a mask. I believe you can just use it as a serum as well though. I cleansed my face & applied as directed. Instructions say to massage onto face until the product liquefies & leave for up to five minutes. It's a clear thin consistency & definitely becomes thinner with the heat of the skin. So I think I used too much! Only a small amount is needed for the whole face. It has a fresh smell but also quite a chemical smell. I left it on for five minutes & it stayed the same texture. I couldn't see anything really happening. I rinsed it off with warm water. It took quite a lot of rinsing & to be honest I am not sure I really got it off.. I didn't notice any pore or blackhead change but I did only use it once. It is more synthetic based than I would buy but maybe it would be great for problem skin..

Any Tips?:

Use a smaller amount than you would think. Rinse a lot! Maybe use a face cloth.

Ideal For...:

Maybe younger skin..

Member since 22/04/2008

179
Reviews

Yvette Rose

2 Apr 2018 6:04 PM

Star Rating:

4

PROACTIV® BLACKHEAD DISSOLVING GEL

I love how Proactiv have re-vamped their packaging with its clinical looking but chic new look.

The blackhead dissolving gel is a clear gel that comes in an upside down flip top lid. The gel is thick and is not a messy gel when applying on the skin.

I have been using the gel for a week now on my blackheads on my shoulders and my nose. They have become visibly smaller (thank you to the salicylic acid) and the smaller blackheads are visibly gone. The best thing about the gel is that it doesn't dry out skin, this is perhaps due to the ingredient dimethicone, which also smooths out the skin.

The only reason why i didn't rate it a 5 star is that the product does have paraben's which I think the product can do without - however the product does deliver what it is meant to do.

Member since 27/05/2011

121
Reviews

babyeest

2 Apr 2018 12:42 PM

Star Rating:

5

Really does rid blackheads and shrinks pores

I will start off by saying that this product does exactly what it claims , by the second use my blackheads were all almost gone and pores looked more minimised than it did previously.

The instructions on the back say to use it as a mask, on cleansed skin, and to rub the product in circular motions onto presumably the nose and chin and other clogged areas until it liquefies. It then needs to be left on for five minutes before washing off. This product has a slight scent which does smell a bit chemical but once it is on your face it is not as noticeable as when you apply it. Once it is washed off, it does leave behind a bit of oily residue but this is easily solved by washing the face another time after use. Once i looked closely in the mirror, the effect on pore size and blackhead reduction was amazing. If i used this 2-3 times in a week my pores were definitely a lot smaller than they were originally. I probably would follow this up with a more hydrating cream in the winter though, in fear of having it dry out my skin but after using it these couple of weeks it didnt dry the nose area out, and there was sufficient hydration.

A thing to be noted however is that this product does contain 2 types of parabens and some other ingredients that I normally stay away from since I tend to break out easily. However I am pleased that this product did not break me out despite its very oily and greasy texture and did exactly as it claimed it would. It is also in a flip top tube which is great and doesnt leak or leave product sitting in the top of the tube unused. Thank you BH for allowing me to try this product through the Glosscars event, as whilst I have seen Proactiv around I have never tried their products. As I actually retain a lot of blackheads due to having to wear makeup everyday for work Im sure ill be repurchasing this product once I finish this tube.

Member since 26/04/2017

138
Reviews

Tigerlily

1 Apr 2018 3:26 PM

Star Rating:

3

Clarifying mask or spot treatment

I was lucky to receive a full-sized product of this at the BH Glosscars Marketplace event. Proactiv is not usually a brand I would gravitate towards as I don't have particularly acne prone skin luckily however I do suffer from the odd hormonal pimple or blemish.

This gel promises to help dissolve blackheads, unclog pores, absorb excess oil and remove blemish causing impurities. I don't really have noticeable blackheads however I do like to use clarifying products to clear skin, unclog pores and prevent blemishes so this would appear to have a use in my skincare regime. I am usually normal to dry skin, however I am more oilier in the summer due to the humidity and this would seem to help balance sebum levels on my skin.

The product is packaged in a white upside down tube with a flip top lid. It dispenses as a milky white thick gel with a slight soapy fragrance. It is suggested to apply this to skin with light circular motions to massage the gel in. It applies as slightly oily but is not greasy or tacky. I left this on for 5-10mins and it was easily washed off with warm water. I don't notice a huge difference but it did leave my skin soft and smooth. It was really gentle on my skin and nowhere near as harsh as the Proactiv 3 step skin solution. Only time will tell with continued use whether this does shrink the appearance of my pores. It's a great clarifying mask when you are time-poor as it only requires 5mins compared to the usual 20-30mins of other masks.

Member since 12/07/2015

194
Reviews

2663anne

30 Mar 2018 12:14 PM

Star Rating:

1

Disappointed after reading others reviews

I was lucky enough to attend Glosscars 2018 and Proactive was one of the companies on display. The blackhead dissolving gel was probably the product I was most excited to trial out of everything as I have large pores and blackheads on my nose and chin.

I applied as per the directions to my nose and chin, on clean skin and massage gently in circular motions for a minute and leave for 5. I left it on for 10 then rinsed it off.
There was no visible difference except those areas feel softer. None of my blackheads have gone or reduced, not even the small ones. Pores are no smaller either.

Ive used this twice so far and see absolutely no difference/improvement. After reading all of the rave reviews here I think I’m even more disappointed because it appears to have worked for others and quite well.

My only positive is that my very reactive sensitive skin is fine and not irritated at all.

Ideal For...:

All skin types

Member since 08/05/2009

338
Reviews

jewl

28 Mar 2018 7:01 PM

Star Rating:

3

Blackhead dissolving gel

I am in love with the new packaging and font style of Proactiv! It looks a bit more fancy than the old style. I was given a full product at the recent Glosscars event. I definitely need a clean face removal of blackheads and this did the job!

The product is a tube with an easy click top lid that came in a cardboard box. The mask itself looks and feels like a serum to me. There is a slight scent but I dont mind it. The instructions said to leave it on for 5 minutes and to apply in circular motions which is what I did.

After I rinsed it off, my face did feel cleaner and smoother. However it feel like my skin was a bit oily after initially rinsing it off. My pores look slightly smaller and my skin feels tighter as well.

This is a great product, I will be introducing this to my husband as he has alot of blackheads to be dissolved!